A nice lot of four maps documenting the battles of the Modoc War:

A. The Lava Beds, Scene of Hostilities in California -- Position of the Modocs and Stations of the Troops [in] The New York Herald, published 1873 (9.2 x 5.4"). This map was included as part of a full-page article on the “Modoc Massacre” of General Canby with "A Bloody Fight and Final End of the Modocs Promised." Featured in the complete 12-page issue from April 14, 1873.

B. The Battle Ground. Scene of the Engagements and the Country Surrounding the Lava Beds, [in] The New York Herald, published 1873 (9.2 x 5.8"). This map covers the broader region around the lava beds and was included with a full-page article of the three days’ battle under the headline “Retribution." Featured in the 12-page issue from April 19, 1873.

C. [Lot of 3] No. 1. Reconnaissance of the Lava Beds Showing Position of Jack's Stronghold... (6.6 x 7.9") [and] No. 2. Reconnaissance of the Lava Beds Sketch Showing Location of Jack’s Cave... (6.1 x 8.0") [and report], by Capt. G.J. Lydecker (6.6 x 7.9"). These two small maps were drawn shortly after the defeat of Captain Jack, the Modoc leader. Accompanied by Lydecker’s 2-page preliminary report (Appendix F F.)

The Modoc War was the only major Indian War fought in California, and the only one in which a general (Canby) of the regular Army was killed (Custer was not a general at the time of his death). The Modoc warriors, never more than 60, used the difficult terrain of the lava beds to hold off the U.S. troops numbering 400 for most of a year until battles in May, 1873 led to the capture and execution of Captain Jack. For a brief history, click here.

References:

Condition: A

Clean bright examples. The front page of the first newspaper is partially separated (unrelated to the article below on page 3).